In behavioral modification, giving a positive outcome after a behavior to increase its frequency is called:

• A. Negative reinforcement
• B. Punishment
• C. Positive reinforcement
• D. Extinction

Answer: (C)

Positive reinforcement is adding a pleasant consequence after a behavior to increase how often that behavior occurs. By presenting a reward, praise, or desirable outcome, the learner associates the behavior with something favorable, making it more likely to happen again. This differs from negative reinforcement, which increases behavior by removing something unpleasant; punishment, which introduces an aversive outcome to decrease a behavior; and extinction, which stops providing reinforcement so the behavior fades. For example, giving a sticker after completing homework strengthens the habit of finishing it.